Chicken with Garlic Gravy and Cheesy Mash Delight

Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Chicken with Garlic Gravy and Cheesy Mash. This dish offers rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for any meal. I’ll guide you step-by-step through making juicy chicken, savory gravy, and cheesy mashed potatoes. Whether you want comfort food or a family favorite, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive in and create a tasty masterpiece!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- Chicken and aromatics

- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- Broth and seasonings

- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Potatoes and cheese

- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and roughly chopped

- 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)

- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, or your favorite type)

- 2 tablespoons butter

When you gather these ingredients, focus on quality. Fresh herbs and good broth can elevate your dish. The chicken thighs bring rich flavor, while garlic and onion add depth to the gravy. Potatoes, milk, and cheese create a creamy mash that comforts the soul. This blend of simple ingredients makes a hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First, dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin. Next, season both sides with salt, pepper, and thyme. Make sure the seasoning covers the chicken well.

Now, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear them for about 5 to 7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 5 minutes. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Making the Gravy

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir often until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the tasty bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover it. Let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cooking the Chicken

Simmer the chicken until it is fully cooked. This process allows the flavors to meld together. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh. If it reads 165°F, your chicken is ready.

Preparing the Cheesy Mash

While the chicken cooks, prepare the cheesy mash. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once done, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Now, add milk, butter, and shredded cheese to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.

Finishing Touches

After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet. If the gravy seems thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. This step thickens it to your liking.

To serve, place a generous scoop of cheesy mash on each plate. Top with a chicken thigh and drizzle the garlic gravy over both the chicken and mash. Enjoy this delicious dish!

Tips & Tricks

How to Get Crispy Skin

To achieve that perfect crispy skin on your chicken, start by drying it well. Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs until they are moisture-free. This step helps the skin crisp up nicely when searing.

For searing, heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, place the chicken skin-side down. Let it cook without moving for about 5-7 minutes. This gives the skin time to brown. Flip and sear the other side for 5 minutes. You want a golden, crispy finish.

Perfecting the Cheesy Mash

For creamy cheesy mash, the right potatoes matter. Use starchy potatoes like Russets. They mash easily and become fluffy. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then drain well.

When mashing, add whole milk and butter. This makes the mash rich and smooth. For cheese, Cheddar is a classic choice. You can also try Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a twist. Mix in the cheese while mashing to get that melty goodness.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, add more herbs and spices. Fresh thyme works well in the gravy. You can also sprinkle in some rosemary or parsley for a fresh touch.

For side dishes, steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli complement this meal perfectly. They add color and crunch. You can serve a simple salad too, which will lighten the meal and bring freshness.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch out chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Chicken breasts cook faster and are leaner. They are great for a lighter meal. Just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dryness.

For vegetarians, try using tofu or tempeh. These options soak up flavors well. Cook them in the same way you would the chicken. Season them with the same spices to keep the taste vibrant.

Different Cheesy Mash Recipes

Cheesy mash can be fun to play with. You can use different types of cheese, like Gouda or Parmesan. Each cheese adds a unique touch. Some cheeses melt better than others, so choose what you like best.

Adding garlic or fresh herbs can elevate your mash. A few cloves of roasted garlic give a deeper flavor. Fresh chives or parsley can add freshness. Mix them in for a tasty twist.

Gravy Variations

If you want a different flavor, try mushroom gravy instead of garlic. Sauté some mushrooms along with the onions. This will add a rich, earthy taste to your dish.

You can also make your gravy richer by adding cream. Just stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. This makes the gravy smooth and decadent. You’ll find it pairs nicely with the cheesy mash.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your chicken with garlic gravy and cheesy mash fresh, follow these tips:

- Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

- Freezing: For longer storage, use freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out air to prevent freezer burn. Store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

When it comes to reheating, you have two main options:

- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and mash in a baking dish. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.

- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

To keep the flavors intact, add a splash of broth or milk when reheating. This keeps the gravy rich and the mash creamy.

FAQs

What can I use instead of chicken thighs?

You can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Breasts cook faster and stay juicy with good seasoning. For a richer taste, try duck or even turkey thighs. If you want a vegetarian choice, use hearty mushrooms like portobello or a mix of your favorite veggies.

Can I use low-sodium broth?

Yes, low-sodium broth is a great choice. It helps you control the salt in your dish. This option allows the natural flavors of your chicken and herbs to shine. It’s also healthier, making it a smart pick for all diets.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and mash ahead. Season and sear the chicken, then cool it. Store it in the fridge for up to a day. For the mash, boil and mash the potatoes. Keep them in a covered bowl in the fridge. When ready, reheat both before serving.

This blog covered the main ingredients and steps to make a tasty dish. We detailed how to prepare chicken, create gravy, and make cheesy mash. I shared tips for crispy skin and creamy mash. Variations allow for different proteins and flavors, making it versatile. Lastly, I provided storage info and answered common questions about the dish.

When you try this recipe, have fun and get creative. Enjoy every bite!